SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6528
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Economic Development, Trade & Management, January 30, 2008
Title: An act relating to staffing and operational costs of the economic development commission.
Brief Description: Concerning the staffing and operational costs of the economic development commission.
Sponsors: Senators Kastama and Kauffman.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Management: 1/30/08 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & MANAGEMENT
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Kastama, Chair; Kilmer, Vice Chair; Zarelli, Ranking Minority Member; Kauffman, King and Shin.
Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)
Background: The Economic Development Strategic Reserve Account was created by the
Legislature in 2005. One-third of unclaimed prize money from the state lottery is deposited into
the account.
The Governor may authorize expenditures from the account with the recommendation of the
Director of the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development, and the
Economic Development Commission.
Funds from the account must be used to fund a minimum of one staff position for the Economic
Development Commission and to cover operational costs of the commission. Funds may be used
to attract businesses and to prevent business closure or relocation. Expenditures may be for
workforce development, public infrastructure, and technical or other assistance.
Summary of Bill: One-third of the amount deposited in the Economic Development Strategic Reserve Account annually must be reserved for and expended on the staffing and operational costs of the Economic Development Commission.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: We put many new provisions in place for the Economic Development Commission. They have to do an inventory, a strategic plan, look at the structure of service delivery, and they have to work on establishing a system for tying star researchers to the needs of our state industries. They need secure funding for this.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Kastama, prime sponsor.